The Proper Way To Install your Composite Decking

There’s a right and wrong way to install your composite decking. Unlike wood, composites need a little more attention and sometimes different set of included fasteners and clips. But before you go ahead and lay those composite boards to complete your Asian deck designs, be sure to educate yourself with the basics and proper methods of installing them. Working with composites is best done on a nice sunny day. It’s not recommended to build your deck in cold weather. Composite wood and co-extrusion timber can be cut and shaped using regular power tools. Here’s a short list of what you need to do to properly build your composite deck:

1. Building the support substructure – the first thing that you need to do is to ensure that the substructure or frame is placed evenly and leveled on the ground. This should first be accomplished to avoid any bumps during the installation of the boards. The composite or plastic wood must never be laid directly on the ground. Uneven surfaces may cause damage. A concrete base would do fine. At least 10 centimeters thick and a slight slope running away from the house so water does not collect underneath the boards.

The joists must be held in place on the concrete with screws and plastic raw plugs. The joists must also be set parallel to each other, again so rain water can flow freely. A gap not exceeding 40cm is perfect. There must also be a space between each joist row. At least 15 mm but should do. This also prevents water from pooling and also allows enough room for expiation during the summer months.

2. Mounting decking boards to joists – A lot manufacturers of composite decking boards have their own style of fastening the boards onto the joists. It’s also common to see the same functionality adapted by many manufacturers, like the T-Clip system. If you’re decking boards come with these fasteners, you could follow these steps to get your rectangular deck designs all set up.

First you need to begin laying out the boards on the outer area. Place the first board onto the joist using the clips and screw firmly. Fit the T-clips in the groove of the board and do the same for either side of your next board until you reach the other end of the area.

The recommended gap between sides of adjacent boards is at least 7mm to keep the water from pooling. Also, this leaves just enough space for the boards to expand during warmer climates. The T-clips help maintain the gaps and ensure that everything is working as intended.

For the butt joints, there should be a gap of at least 8mm. For areas where the board meets other objects like the board, there should be at least 15mm space. The allocated space is also for the same reason as other spacing.

3. Wrapping up the job

After putting all the boards together and completing your elevated deck design ideas, which are trendy in 2018, what’s left is to tidy up the sides. Corner trims and skirting can be installed to hide the joists and the unfinished end of the boards. The trimmings can be installed directly by screwing them into place. Corner trims may also be applied alongside the skirting. Again, enough spacing should be observed to allow air to pass through freely, as well as water. Overall, the installation process is fairly simple. It can be achieved with just the help of simple power tools that you might already have in your home. Just follow the stated guidelines and you’ll have your dream deck in your garden ready in no time. If you are not confident with your skills, you can always contact a professional builder who can make your Asian deck designs into a reality. He will also consider your privacy needs and even help you construct one that will give you a great view of the outdoors both day and night. Builders know everything about modern decks how to make sure that they are built to match your outdoor living space and satisfy your preferences.